476. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider a parking permit scheme for those with hidden disabilities and neurodivergence who may need accommodations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62325/26]

As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that individuals with significantly compromised mobility and people who are blind are eligible for the Disabled Parking Scheme. There is no prescribed list of disabilities, hidden or visible, in relation to eligibility for the Scheme. If an applicant with a hidden disability or a neurodivergent individual meets the current criteria, they will be issued a disabled parking permit.

My Department has no plans to introduce a new parking scheme at present. However, the Deputy may note that my Department is reviewing the Disabled Parking Permit, including eligibility criteria.

The possibility of extending the Scheme to include people with hidden disabilities, including neurodivergence, has been raised on a number of occasions and the Department has consulted extensively with the issuing authorities for the Scheme, the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland and the Irish Wheelchair Association, on this matter.